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Citizen Science

Boone Smith

Have you ever wondered what wildlife is in your backyard or on your property? You and your family can monitor wildlife with remote trail cameras and directly participate in citizen science by providing us with the data to aid in wildlife research efforts!

What is a remote camera? It is a camera that records images when triggered by motion, either as a still photograph or a video - It is a rugged and weatherproof device designed for extended and unmanned use outdoors. For scientists, it is a camera placed by a researcher or photographer to conduct non-invasive research and collect data that shows an animal’s behavior when humans are not present. View our Remote Camera Galleries for exciting examples!

These cameras most often contain a light or heat motion sensor to trigger the camera to take a picture or video when something moves in front of the sensor on the camera. Remote cameras obtain footage that would likely not be possible with human presence.

Note on choosing your camera: As with anything, you get what you pay for. The most important specifications to focus on are the following: Photo quality, trigger speed, and battery life. We highly recommend either the Bushnell Trophy Cam models or the Reconyx models. We would highly discourage purchasing the 'cheaper cameras' (For example: Wildgame innovations, Cuddeback). While they do 'function', they typically have a slower trigger speed (time it takes for the camera to take a photo or video after being triggered), lower photo quality, and shorter battery life. From the recommended models, below is a list of pros and cons for each camera:

When your camera station is set-up, you can contact us at info@felidaefund.org. We will give you the instructions and provide you with the data sheets to record your data as a citizen scientist for wildlife research.

The manager of the Forestry and Water Affairs Ministry's Malatya regional office, Ayhan Deligöz, announced the animal carcass that was found in the Boğalı village of the eastern Anatolian province of Tunceli's Pülümür district on July 18 was an infant Anatolian leopard. Read full report.